From a Crain’s Chicago Business article.
Coming to a Whole Foods near you: in-store bars and restaurants
As Chicago’s upscale grocery scene gets more crowded and more consumers turn to grocery delivery services, it’s no longer enough to stock the shelves and hope customers show up.
Amid a six-store expansion in the Chicago market, Whole Foods is adding in-store dining options and bars to each, hoping to give adult customers more reasons to visit.
“Simply put, we’re looking for ways to make the places more appealing,” says Michael Bashaw, president of Whole Foods’ Midwest region. “If bricks-and-mortar (grocers) are going to survive, they must offer a compelling experience to customers.”